Pooling water underneath a slow drip from your ceiling after a storm can leave you unsure of what to do. Roof leaks don’t fix themselves, so it’s best to figure out the source of the leak as soon as possible.
Storms can expose vulnerabilities in your roof, and cause major damage if your roof hasn’t been maintained properly. After a major storm, if you notice pooling water, it might indicate a roof leak and other more intensive damage.
First, stop further water damage by limiting the water touching surfaces. Place a bucket or receptacle under the dripping, and keep an eye on the area to ensure the problem doesn’t escalate.
It may be necessary to move valuable items out of the room in the event of a ceiling collapse if the water damage is more severe. Call a professional roofing company if you believe the roof damage is extensive, and have them take a look to ensure your safety and the safety of others. If you are unsure of the level of damage, let’s get a professional opinion on the next steps.
Sometimes, it is easy to tell if you have a leak in your roof. Here are some common signs you need some patching or roof maintenance due to leaks:
There are a few different things to remember when searching for a roof leak. When in doubt, call a roofing professional and let their expertise work for you. While the leak may initially seem minor, it can take time for the water to accumulate. Damage may be more extensive than just a tiny leak and might be more than anticipated.
If you are unable to call a professional, here are some best practices for locating the problem:
Looking around for moisture and mold in the attic is an excellent place to start. If you have access to the attic, check for wet insulation, active dripping, or any pooling water. Water is a clear indication of a leak.
Mold may also be present in the areas surrounding the leak. Carefully inspect the attic for mold in moist areas, and call a professional for advice on handling the mold issue safely if needed.
Metal and tile roofings may have built up rust or cracks. If you have shingles on your roof, see if there are any missing or loose shingles. They may be shifted around, curled, or cracked in the leak area. If you can get on the roof, check for loose or missing nails as well.
Roof flashings and vents are another area that needs inspecting. These are also ways water can sneak in after a storm, and the flashing where the roof meets the top of the walls can become vulnerable areas. Flashing around the nooks and crannies like the vents and chimneys can also be where leaks hide.
Sometimes, when a roof leak is especially elusive, roofing contractors need extra help from technology. Infrared cameras and drones are sometimes used to see things from a different, birds-eye angle. This allows contractors to see the roof without setting foot on it. Infrared cameras can also identify water pooled around on or under the roof.
Want to learn more about what roof inspections can detect? Read this article for more common issues that can come up.
There are different ways to go about waterproofing your roof. Depending on the age of your roof and any insurance you have, a leaky roof repair could be just a call to your contractor away. However, if this isn’t the case, here are some ways to fix your roof.
Applying these may be a decent fix for a small leak around flashing, skylights, windows, and shingles. If used properly, these can quickly fix minor leaks.
As simple as it sounds, a well-placed bucket or tub under the leak can tide over your roof until a contractor can come out and inspect the area. To stabilize the bucket as it fills with water, place two beams under it for stability.
Any good roofer knows how to fix your leaky roof and prevent water damage in the future. Routine repair and maintenance are essential for the longevity of your roof. Heavy rain, snow, hail, and wind can affect your roof, and routine inspections prevent significant damage or even a roof replacement.
It is best not to wait until problems become apparent but to stay up to date on inspections to diagnose problems before they become very costly. Some common services offered by contractors for roofing repairs include:
Denver’s premiere women-owned roofing company, Trinity Construction Services, provides custom solutions for commercial and residential roof leaks. Ensure you are ready for any weather, and keep up with your roof maintenance. Our trained staff of professionals can inspect, repair, and monitor the health of your roof. Contact Trinity Construction Services to schedule your inspection today.
